Cogongrass (Japgrass)

Scientific Name - Imperata cylindrica (L.) Beauv.
Family - Gramineae

Dense erect, spreading perennial from seed or scaly white rhizomes. Newly emerging shoots sharp and stiff to touch. Stem upright. Leaves very stiff or rigid, smooth except for tufts of hair on upper surface at base of blade. Base of blade often narrow and petiole-like. Midvein is not in the center of the leaf blade. Sheath smooth to hairy. Seedhead a plume-like panicle. Spikelets numerous, each surrounded by long, silky hairs at base. Reproduces by seed and rhizomes. Found only in the Gulf Coast regions of the southeast United States. Also occurs in Tropical Africa, Europe, Australia, Asia and Hawaii.